By Patrick Obia
Nigerian Human Rights Advocate and Humanist, Leo Igwe has lauded the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogo Augustine Grimah on the arrest of 26 suspects over the murder of Mrs. Martina Okey Itagbor, accused of witchcraft and burnt to death in Old Netim, Akamkpa LGA of the State.
Madam Martina Okey who was in her 70s, was beaten and set ablaze by a greater number of angry mobs who watched her burn to ashes on the 18th of June, 2023 at about 7:am.
Leo Igwe, a former Western and Southern African representative of the International Humanist and Ethical Union in an applaudable texts, said the CP’s swift move is a sign of commitment in ensuring that justice is done.
Leo, who has specialized in campaigning against and documenting the impacts of child witchcraft accusations, assured the Cross River State Police Command of the Humanist support.
“Dear CP, many thanks for your handling of the witch-burning incident in Old Netim. Those who met with you have noted that you are committed to ensuring that justice is done and we are behind you.”
The Police are, however, charged to unravel where the remains of late Martina are, so that the family can give her a farewell burial.
“As you may know, one critical issue is the location of the remains of Mrs. Itagbor. Family members have yet to do this because they would want to accord her a proper burial. Please, part of the investigation should be the location of the remains of the woman. The police should get the suspects to lead them to where they deposited the remains. The family needs them, we need them. Please, CP.”
Though one of Madam Martina’s daughters who watched her mum burnt to ashes helplessly, in an interview with CrossRiverWatch, said the mobs had waited patiently till her mother was razed to dust, swept her remains into the gutter, and then washed the scene with water.